Heavy vehicle technicians sharpen diagnostic abilities at Delphi Academy
The final stage of the Institute of the Motor Industry’s (IMI) Skills Competitions is almost here and the five Heavy Vehicle competitors have been fine-tuning their diagnostic skills at the last of this year’s IMI Masterclasses.
The apprentices gathered at the Delphi Academy, one of Europe’s largest aftermarket technician training centres, where they learned how to perfect their diagnostic techniques under the skilled mentorship of Delphi’s technical trainers.
As a professional body committed to nurturing grassroots automotive talent in the UK, the IMI always emphasises the importance of ‘soft’ skills in its annual competitions, as they are essential not only for the upcoming final stage of the competition, but also the future careers of the talented competitors.
Importantly, the IMI Heavy Vehicle Masterclass provided the competitors with a hands-on introduction to Delphi’s diagnostic tools, which are the same systems they’ll use in the upcoming National Finals.
By using this brand-neutral diagnostic technology rather than manufacturer-specific tools, the competition ensures a fair and level playing field for all competitors, whether they represent independent workshops or manufacturer networks.
HGV Skills Competitions competitor Lewis Somerscale, who is an IMI Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Level 3 Apprentice at Fife College and Fife Council said: “The day has been really interesting and useful. I’ve never used these tools before, so it’s been a great experience, without this training, I honestly wouldn’t know how to approach some of these faults. Even though I’m at the end of my apprenticeship, this is training I haven’t had before, so it’s been really valuable.”
David Guilfoyle, technical trainer, MIMI, AAE, CAA at Delphi Academy, added: “Today’s session is all about building confidence through logical thinking. In the finals, competitors might come across something unfamiliar, but that’s part of real-world diagnostics. If they follow the structured steps they’ve learned today, they’ll be able to work through it methodically instead of panicking. That’s what separates a good technician from a great one.”
Concludes Sarah Whiteside-Jones, director of membership engagement and public affairs at the IMI: “I am always so blown away by the incredible talent on display at the IMI Masterclasses. Focusing on both mindset and practical skills, these apprentices have worked so hard to get this far and seeing them shine with confidence as they learn new vocational skills is incredibly satisfying.
“There’s no doubt that this year’s final in Cardiff is going to be a closely fought competition but regardless of who wins, all the finalists have already given themselves a massive kickstart to their careers.”
The IMI Skills Competitions National Finals take place at Cardiff and Vale College, from 26th-28th November.